Why you should avoid Puerto Barrios, Guatemala as a backpacker.

Thinking of visiting Puerto Barrios, Guatemala as a backpacker?

This is my honest experience after staying in the port city on Guatemala’s Caribbean coast. Before arriving, I saw photos of tropical beaches and cruise ships… but the reality was very different.

In this video I explore Puerto Barrios on foot, visit the city centre, check out the market, talk about our Airbnb, and show what the town is actually like for travellers. If you’re researching places to visit on Guatemala’s east coast, this guide will help you decide whether Puerto Barrios is right for your route.

What’s in this video:

– What Puerto Barrios really looks like
– Why backpackers often skip this city
– Accommodation options (very limited hostels)
– Safety, vibe, and first impressions
– Exploring the market and main street
– What to expect from the “Caribbean coast” here
– Whether it’s worth visiting as a backpacker

Puerto Barrios isn’t a typical tourist spot. It’s a working port city with very few attractions — but it does show a more authentic, everyday side of Guatemala away from the usual backpacker trail.

If you’re planning a trip across Guatemala, Belize, or Honduras, hopefully this honest guide helps you plan your route.

I am an older backpacker travelling the world proving that backpacking is not just for the younger generation.

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